Why are Hitachi excavators so popular in the used equipment market?

In the secondary market for heavy machinery, Hitachi consistently stands out as one of the most trusted brands by contractors, mining operators, and civil engineering firms worldwide. Whether it is the legendary ZX200 series or the heavy-duty mining excavators, used Hitachi units are highly sought after for their legendary balance of speed, power, and long-term durability.

If you are considering adding a pre-owned machine to your fleet, here is why a used Hitachi excavator is a smart investment for your business.

1. Industry-Leading Hydraulic Efficiency

The “soul” of a Hitachi excavator is its HIOS (Human Intelligent Operating System) hydraulic system. Unlike many other brands where movements can become jerky as the machine ages, Hitachi maintains its signature smoothness even after thousands of working hours.

• Precision Control: This allows operators to perform complex compound movements (swinging and lifting simultaneously) with extreme accuracy.
• Fuel Savings: By optimizing hydraulic flow, the system ensures that no engine power is wasted, keeping your hourly fuel costs significantly lower than competitor models of the same age.

2. Built for Longevity: Structural Integrity

Hitachi excavators are engineered for “heavy-duty” applications. Their booms, arms, and undercarriages are built with high-tensile steel designed to withstand the stress of quarrying and demolition.

• Reinforced Structures: When buying used, structural cracks are a major concern. Hitachi’s robust welding and design philosophy mean their chassis and workgroups tend to stay “tight” and reliable for a longer lifecycle.
• Durability in Harsh Climates: From the humidity of Southeast Asia to the dry heat of the Middle East, Hitachi’s cooling systems and electrical components are proven to perform under extreme environmental stress.

3. High Resale Value and Global Parts Support

One of the biggest advantages of owning a Hitachi is the “Global Commonality” of its parts.

• Easy Maintenance: Because Hitachi is a market leader, finding spare parts—whether OEM or high-quality aftermarket—is incredibly easy in almost any country. This minimizes your downtime.
• Asset Liquidity: Hitachi machines hold their value exceptionally well. When you finish a project and decide to sell, you can expect a higher return on investment (ROI) compared to less prominent brands.

4. Operator Comfort and Ease of Service

A productive machine is only as good as its operator. Hitachi cabs are known for their ergonomic layouts and excellent visibility. Furthermore, Hitachi designs its machines with “ground-level access” in mind. Most filters, oil gauges, and cooling units can be accessed easily, ensuring that routine maintenance is actually performed, which is critical for the longevity of used equipment.

Tips for Buying a Used Hitachi Excavator

To ensure you get the best value, our technical team recommends focusing on these three areas during your inspection:

1. Hydraulic Pump Performance: Listen for any unusual whining and check the cycle times for the boom and bucket.
2. Engine Blow-by: Check the engine’s exhaust and breathers to ensure the Isuzu or Yanmar engine is still running at peak compression.
3. Undercarriage Wear: Measure the remaining life on the rollers, idlers, and track chains to calculate your upcoming maintenance budget.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a machine with strong power, easy maintenance, and high ROI, a used Hitachi excavator is undoubtedly your smartest choice.